Wine and drinks in Gozo
Gozo has a long connection with the cultivation of grapes and the production of wine. The island's dry Mediterranean climate and agricultural landscape have helped wine remain part of local food and social traditions.
Alongside wine, visitors can discover a range of traditional and locally produced drinks, including fruit-based liqueurs, carob drinks and other products made from island ingredients.
Exploring local drinks is a useful way to experience another side of Gozan food culture, particularly when combined with traditional cheeses, bread and other local produce.
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Gozan wine
Wine has been produced in Malta for centuries, and vineyards remain part of the agricultural landscape of both Malta and Gozo. Modern local wines include both traditional and international grape varieties.
Gozo's smaller scale and rural character make vineyard visits an appealing part of a food-focused trip. Local wine can also be enjoyed alongside the island's cheeses, breads and other produce.
Local drinks to look for
- Gozan wine — wine produced from locally grown grapes
- Carob drinks — made using the island's traditional carob crop
- Liqueurs — often made with fruit, herbs or other flavours
- Fruit-based drinks — reflecting local and Mediterranean produce
Wine and Gozan food
Local wine fits naturally with many of the foods found around Gozo. It can be served with ġbejniet, traditional bread, olives and other local products.
A simple meal built around local food and a glass of wine is an easy way to experience the island's Mediterranean food traditions.
Discover local producers
Wine and other drinks can be found in restaurants, wine shops, food stores and from local producers. Some producers also offer opportunities to learn more about their vineyards and products.
If you visit a vineyard or producer, check opening times and tasting arrangements in advance, particularly outside the main tourist season.
Carob and traditional drinks
Carob has been part of the Maltese agricultural landscape for generations. The pods have been used traditionally in drinks as well as sweets and other preparations.
Carob products are an interesting example of how a familiar local crop can be turned into different foods and drinks. They are worth looking for alongside other traditional Gozan products.
Liqueurs and local flavours
Fruit and herbal liqueurs are also associated with Maltese food traditions. Producers may use ingredients such as citrus fruit, herbs, berries and other flavours to create distinctive drinks.
Availability varies between producers and shops, so the selection visitors find in Gozo can change throughout the year.
Frequently asked questions
Does Gozo produce wine?
Yes. Wine is produced in Gozo as part of Malta's wider winemaking tradition, and vineyards form part of the island's agricultural landscape.
What drinks are traditional in Gozo?
Local wine, carob-based drinks and various fruit or herbal liqueurs are among the drinks visitors may encounter as part of Maltese and Gozan food traditions.
What food goes well with Gozan wine?
Local wine can be enjoyed with ġbejniet, traditional bread, olives and other Gozan foods and produce.
What is a carob drink?
Carob drinks are made using the pods of the carob tree, a traditional crop of Malta and Gozo. Carob has also traditionally been used in sweets and other foods.
Can I visit a vineyard in Gozo?
Some local wine producers offer visits or tastings, but arrangements and opening times vary. It is best to check with the producer before visiting.
Where can I buy local wine in Gozo?
Local wines can be found in restaurants, wine shops, food stores, supermarkets and directly from some producers.
Explore Gozo food
Continue exploring traditional foods and local flavours around the island.